Cupertino pickleball players protest Mayor Chow's noise mitigation proposal

The Cupertino City Council meeting held on July 1, 2025, addressed several key issues, with a notable focus on community concerns regarding pickleball noise at Cupertino Memorial Park.

The meeting began with public comments, where Emily Dana, representing a large group of pickleball players, expressed strong opposition to a proposal put forth by Mayor Chow. The plan aimed to mitigate noise generated by pickleball games, which included suggestions for players to use specific equipment, such as scribe bottles and balls, and to limit play to certain hours—before 9 AM and after 7 PM. Dana's remarks highlighted the frustration among players who felt that these restrictions would significantly impact their ability to enjoy the sport.

Following the public comments, the council discussed the implications of the proposed noise mitigation measures. Council members engaged in a dialogue about balancing the interests of pickleball enthusiasts with the concerns of nearby residents regarding noise levels. The discussion underscored the importance of community engagement in finding a solution that accommodates both parties.

No formal decisions were made during this meeting regarding the noise mitigation plan, but the council agreed to further explore options and gather more input from the community. The next steps will likely involve additional discussions and potential revisions to the proposal based on feedback from both pickleball players and residents.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the ongoing dialogue between the city council and community members, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions to address noise concerns while preserving recreational opportunities in Cupertino.